More than two million people each year in the United States experience whiplash, which is common after an accident. Fortunately, chiropractic care can manage and relieve the often-severe neck pain that is the hallmark of this condition. Here's a closer look at this injury so you can determine the best approach to treatment. 

What Causes Whiplash?

A whiplash injury results from the head snapping back and forth quickly and with great force. The sudden and powerful jolting movement damages the neck's soft tissues, strains the spine, and affects bones, muscles, and nerves in the area.

Most cases of whiplash occur due to motor vehicle accidents, specifically rear-end collisions. That's because these collisions often involve hard stops, sudden changes in direction, and blunt-force impacts. Nonetheless, the condition can result from other types of incidents, including slip-and-falls and sports accidents. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Neck pain is the most pronounced symptom of whiplash, which can range from a minor ache to debilitating soreness and tenderness. Discomfort is also often experienced in the shoulders, back, and arms, typically worsening with movement. It can be accompanied by significant stiffness and limited mobility.

Whiplash can cause symptoms in other parts of the body as well, particularly the head. Headaches, dizziness, vertigo, and difficulty concentrating are among the most common problems experienced.

How Can Chiropractic Care Help?

There is no specific cure for whiplash other than time and rest. However, chiropractic care can help relieve pain, increase mobility, and encourage the body's innate, natural healing capabilities. The nature and extent of your treatment will depend on the injury's severity. 

In many cases, a chiropractor will help loosen the neck muscles through gentle stretching. Then, they will adjust the spine to bring the bones of the vertebra back into healthy alignment. This measure helps decrease pressure on the neck, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve movement.

Don't let the pain of whiplash prevent you from living a full life, so visit North Pole Chiropractic to alleviate discomfort. Serving the Alaskan Interior for over two decades, they offer comprehensive chiropractic care for various medical concerns, including whiplash, sciatica, and sports and automobile injuries. Call (907) 488-1885 to make an appointment or visit their website to explore their services.